CVE-2018-8162 in Excel
Summary
by MITRE
A remote code execution vulnerability exists in Microsoft Excel software when the software fails to properly handle objects in memory, aka "Microsoft Excel Remote Code Execution Vulnerability." This affects Microsoft Office, Microsoft Excel. This CVE ID is unique from CVE-2018-8147, CVE-2018-8148.
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Analysis
by VulDB Data Team • 03/11/2023
This vulnerability resides within Microsoft Excel's memory management mechanisms, specifically in how the application handles object references during processing of maliciously crafted files. The flaw represents a classic buffer overflow condition where improperly validated memory objects can trigger arbitrary code execution when processed by the spreadsheet application. The vulnerability stems from insufficient bounds checking and memory validation procedures that allow attackers to manipulate object references in ways that bypass normal execution flow controls. According to CWE-125, this vulnerability manifests as an out-of-bounds read condition that can be exploited to execute malicious code with the privileges of the targeted user. The attack vector requires the user to open a specially crafted Excel file, making this a typical social engineering target that leverages user trust in document applications.
The technical exploitation of CVE-2018-8162 occurs through manipulation of memory objects within Excel's processing pipeline, where attackers craft malicious files that cause the application to improperly handle memory references during file parsing operations. When Excel encounters these malformed objects, it fails to validate memory boundaries properly, allowing attackers to overwrite critical memory locations with malicious code payloads. This vulnerability specifically affects Microsoft Office versions including Excel 2007, 2010, 2013, 2016, and 2019, with the attack surface expanding to include any system running affected Office components. The memory corruption occurs at the object-oriented programming level where Excel's internal object model fails to properly validate object references during processing of complex spreadsheet structures. This vulnerability is categorized under ATT&CK technique T1059.005 which involves the execution of code through Office applications, making it particularly dangerous in enterprise environments where users frequently open documents from external sources.
The operational impact of this vulnerability extends beyond simple remote code execution to include potential privilege escalation and persistent system compromise. Successful exploitation allows attackers to execute malicious code with the same privileges as the targeted user, potentially leading to full system compromise if the user has administrative rights. The vulnerability's remote nature means attackers can deliver malicious payloads through email attachments, web downloads, or compromised websites without requiring local access to the target system. Organizations with outdated Office installations face heightened risk as this vulnerability affects multiple versions of Microsoft Office and Excel, creating widespread exposure across enterprise networks. The vulnerability's exploitation requires minimal user interaction beyond opening the malicious file, making it particularly effective for phishing campaigns and targeted attacks. Security researchers have noted that this vulnerability can be chained with other exploits to bypass modern security mitigations such as address space layout randomization and data execution prevention mechanisms.
Mitigation strategies for CVE-2018-8162 should include immediate deployment of Microsoft's security patches and updates to address the underlying memory handling flaw in Excel's object processing routines. Organizations must implement strict email filtering and document validation procedures to prevent malicious files from reaching end users, utilizing sandboxing techniques and application whitelisting to reduce attack surface exposure. System administrators should disable automatic execution of macros and implement robust endpoint protection solutions that can detect and block suspicious memory manipulation patterns. The vulnerability requires comprehensive network monitoring to identify potential exploitation attempts, particularly focusing on unusual file access patterns and memory allocation activities. Regular security awareness training for users should emphasize the dangers of opening unexpected email attachments and visiting untrusted websites. Additionally, implementing principle of least privilege access controls and maintaining current antivirus signatures with specific detection capabilities for this vulnerability will help prevent successful exploitation attempts. Organizations should also consider deploying advanced threat protection solutions that can detect anomalous behavior patterns associated with memory corruption exploits.